Who can grow town’s tallest sunflower?
BUDDING young gardeners are being set the challenge of growing the tallest sunflower as part of a schools’ competition being run by Southport Flower Show and the Children’s University.
Pupils are being invited to plant, grow and nurture their own sunflowers with the aim of growing them as tall as possible.
The challenge is open to all school pupils under 14 across the north west and the pupil who grows the tallest sunflower before July 5 will be deemed the winner, once the height has been verified by judges.
Ray Roukin, general manager of Southport Flower Show, is encouraging schools to take part. He said: “The aim of the challenge is to provide a bit of fun and friendly competition for pupils across the region. It’s also a great way to encourage young people to learn more about the growing process, you’re never too young to start gardening!
“There will be plenty of family activities on offer at this year’s Southport Flower Show including a new interactive marquee, crafts, falconry, award winning clowns Sonny and Rainbow and much more.”
Laura Grigsby, Lancashire and Sefton Children’s University manager, said: “We are pleased to be teaming up with this year’s Southport Flower Show. It’s a great event for families to experience the magic of gardening and to enjoy the entertainment. Children go free and the event counts towards your Children’s University Passport to Learning.”
The pupil who grows the tallest sunflower will receive £500 of gardening equipment for their school and a visit from a gardening expert from the Southport Flower Show to help with their school garden. The winner will also receive a family pass to the Southport Flower Show, which is set to take place from August 18-21. Five runners up will also receive family tickets to the show.
Schools interested in taking part in the challenge should contact lisa@southportflowershow.co.uk